Set Equalizer : Enhance Driving Listening Experience

When it comes to car audio, speaker setups can vary. Standard models usually have 4 speakers, while higher-end options boast 6 or even 12 speakers. Some cars even feature branded speakers from renowned manufacturers like Bang & Olufsen, Bose, and Harman Kardon. These partnerships ensure top-notch audio quality with optimized tuning. While the stock system is sufficient for most drivers, tweaking your EQ settings can enhance the overall experience.

Customizing your equalizer settings can transform your music into a personalized auditory delight. With a few adjustments, you can achieve a well-balanced and immersive sound experience in your car. By fine-tuning your equalizer, you'll not only enhance your listening pleasure but also optimize the performance of your car's audio system.

What is car equalizer

A car equalizer is a device or feature found in car audio systems that allows you to adjust and control the frequency response of your audio signals. It consists of multiple bands, each representing a specific frequency range, which can be boosted or attenuated to achieve a desired sound balance. This enables you to customize the audio output according to your preferences and the acoustics of your car's interior. With a car equalizer, you have the ability to enhance certain frequencies, such as bass or treble, and create a more immersive and enjoyable listening experience.

Types of car equalizer

When it comes to equalizers, there are two popular types: graphic and parametric EQs. Graphic EQs offer a more detailed approach with individual sliders for each frequency band. On the other hand, parametric EQs keep it simple with just three knobs: bass, mid, and high, making it a minimalist option.

Parametric equalizers are commonly found in single DIN head units, while graphic equalizers are typically found in double DIN head units. Additionally, there are external equalizers available, offering even more customization for your listening pleasure. These external options are especially beneficial for component speaker setups.

1. Graphic equalizers

Graphic equalizers provide precise control over different frequency bands, allowing you to fine-tune your sound. Each band is represented by a slider, enabling you to boost or attenuate specific frequencies. When the sliders are set to the middle position, you'll achieve a neutral sound response.

By adjusting the slider for a specific frequency band, such as 500Hz, you have the power to decrease or amplify that particular sound.

2. Parametric equalizers

Parametric equalizers, commonly found in single DIN car stereos, boast a sleek and minimalist design. Their compact size eliminates the need for a visual representation like that of a graphic equalizer, saving valuable space.

Physically, parametric equalizers in your single DIN car stereo typically feature bass, mid, and high knobs. However, some models may offer additional bands like low mids and mid-highs for greater customization.

Know the basic terms

To fully grasp the car equalizer, let's explore some key technical terms. Keep in mind that the human ear has a hearing range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz.

• EQ (Equalization): This is adjusting the balance between frequency components within an electronic signal.
• Frequency: Measured in Hertz (Hz), frequency refers to the pitch of a sound. Lower frequencies produce bass sounds, while higher frequencies result in treble.
• Bass : The sub-bass frequencies, ranging from 20 Hz to 60 Hz, create the deep and powerful sounds that set the tone for movies and music productions. Think of thunder rumbling or the thump of a bass drum. These low frequencies add depth and impact to the overall audio experience.
• Mids : A classification of frequencies that range from approximately 60 Hz to 6,600 Hz.

  Lower-mid : spanning from 60 Hz to 250 Hz, house the rich tones of the bass guitar, the punch of the kick drum, and other foundational low-end elements. These frequencies give music its rhythmic drive and depth.

  
  Mids : ranging from 250 Hz to 1,500 Hz, are the sweet spot for our ears. It's where the most important sounds reside, such as captivating vocals, vibrant piano melodies, and expressive guitar solos. This range captures the essence of music and adds emotional depth to the listening experience.

  
  Upper-mids : spanning from 1,500 Hz to 6,600 Hz.This range adds crystal-clear clarity and captivating presence to the sound. 

• Highs: Covers frequencies from approximately 6,600 Hz to 20,000 Hz. In this range, you'll find shimmering hiss and pleasing higher harmonics. It enhances the spatial localization of the sound.

• Band: In EQ terms, a band refers to a specific range of frequencies. For instance, a 10-band equalizer allows adjustments in ten distinct frequency ranges.

• Gain: This refers to the level of amplification or attenuation you apply to a band. Increasing the gain boosts the volume of that frequency range while decreasing it reduces the volume.

• Q Factor/Width: This term refers to the range of frequencies affected around the center frequency. A lower Q affects a wider range, while a higher Q is more precise.

• Low Pass Filter: A filter that allows frequencies below a set point to pass through while attenuating higher frequencies.

• High Pass Filter: The opposite of a low pass filter. This allows higher frequencies to pass while reducing lower ones.

• Parametric EQ: A type of equalizer that allows you to adjust each band’s center frequency, gain, and bandwidth.

• Graphic EQ: A type of equalizer with fixed frequency bands. You can only adjust the gain of each band.

• Shelving EQ: This type of EQ boosts or cuts frequencies above (high shelf) or below (low shelf) a set frequency.

What is the best setting for the equalizer?

Equalizer requires considering a myriad of factors unique to your listening experience. The genre of music you indulge in, the characteristics of your speaker setup, your personal preferences, and even the acoustics of your car all play a part in crafting the perfect equalizer setting. 

How to adjust equalizer settings?

When it comes to tweaking your equalizer settings, the process can vary depending on your car stereo and audio system setup. Whether you have a single DIN or double DIN car stereo, the steps for adjusting your equalizer will differ. 

Single DIN car stereos take a more traditional approach, without the luxury of a colorful touchscreen LCD. Instead, you'll navigate the parameters using various buttons and knobs. In contrast, double DIN car stereos offer the convenience of a touchscreen LCD, making parameter adjustments a breeze. 

First off, you need to access your car’s equalizer. 

1. Single DIN Car Stereo

Unlocking the equalizer settings on single DIN car stereos is as simple as locating the "EQ" button or activating it through the volume or tune knob. From there, navigate through the frequency bands using the same knob and fine-tune the sound to your liking. 

2. Double DIN Car Stereo

Through double DIN car stereos with their intuitive built-in touchscreen LCD. Dive into the "Settings" menu and find the equalizer option. 

3. External Equalizer

In case you’re using an external equalizer, be it a graphic or parametric one, you just need to use the touchscreen or the knobs/sliders to tailor the sound to your liking.

Once entering the realm of equalizer settings. Connect your phone to the infotainment system or listen to an FM radio station playing your favorite songs. Start fine-tuning your settings.

When it comes to tuning your equalizer, there are different approaches you can take. You can start from the highest frequencies and work your way down, or begin with the lower frequencies and move up. However, considering that most cars lack a subwoofer, it's recommended to focus on tuning the lower range of frequencies first.

Begin by gradually increasing the lowest frequency and pay attention to how the track sounds as you make adjustments. Be cautious not to push the bass beyond your speaker's capabilities. If you start to hear distortion or unwanted noise, it's a sign that you've gone too far and should decrease the lower frequencies. So, if you're seeking a stronger bass, give these frequencies a gentle boost.

Moving on, it's time to fine-tune the lower-mids on your equalizer. Here, you'll want to make slight adjustments to enhance the richness of lower tones in your music, such as saxophones and deep guitar notes. These frequencies are generally more pleasant to the ear and studies suggest they can improve your focus during longer drives. 

Now, let's move on to the mids, which can become fatiguing if overly boosted for extended periods. It's recommended to make subtle adjustments to the mid frequencies, as excessive boosting can lead to listener fatigue during long drives. In fact, many prefer to keep the mid frequencies flat, right in the middle, without any significant adjustments. Some even prefer to lower the mids to allow other frequencies to take the spotlight. 

Be cautious when dealing with the higher frequencies, also known as treble, as they can be damaging to your ears if listened to at high volumes for extended periods. It's advisable to make subtle adjustments to the upper-mid range to avoid listener fatigue during long drives or listening sessions. While a well-tuned upper-mid range can produce a resonant and bell-like sound, it's not uncommon to reduce the gain of these frequencies for a more enjoyable listening experience. 

The high-frequency range adds ambiance and atmosphere to your music, creating a sense of space and background. Be mindful when adjusting the lower part of this range, as too much boost can make the track annoying to listen to. 

When it comes to EQ settings, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. It largely depends on personal preference. However, a popular approach is to create a "U" shape on your EQ graph, with a slight boost in the bass and high frequencies, while keeping the mids relatively flat or subtly boosted. This can help enhance the overall balance and impact of your music. 

You should tune your equalizer based on a few different parameters. Consider what kind of songs you listen to and what genres are your favorite. Different genres often shine best with different equalizer settings. It’s not uncommon for cars to have a preset for rock, electronic, hip hop, and etc.

Now that you understand the equalizer, remember that there's no one-size-fits-all setting. Adjusting the equalizer is all about personalization. Consider the genre of music you're listening to and, most importantly, trust your own ears and preferences. Tailor the equalizer settings to create your perfect audio experience.